We may in deepest winter but revellers in Hale are already planning for their hottest event of the year.

Hale Carnival organisers have announced “exciting” changes with an earlier procession now kickstarting a day of fun and festivities on Saturday, July 5.

The procession has been moved from its traditional 6pm start to 2pm with participants gathering at Hale School Field from 1.15pm for judging.

Spectators are set to line the streets and cheer on the procession on its journey down Upper Hale Road to the recreation ground.

The festivities will continue throughout the day with live music, food and drink stalls, a dog show, children’s entertainment and much more planned.

Prizes will be awarded for best overall adult, children’s and original entries with classes for nursery and infant schools (years up to seven) and junior and senior schools (ages 7 to 18).

There will also be further children’s and adult classes for clubs, organisations, churches, individuals and groups, and a section for classic vehicles.

Would-be participants have been urged to put on their thinking gaps, book early and get creating with more details and registration at www.halecarnival.co.uk

There will be temporary road closures on the day, anyone with questions or wanting more information should contact the Hale Carnival Committee at [email protected]